PORTLAND, Ind. — As soon as the sun rose Sept. 23, dozens made their way over to the American Legion Post 211 in Portland, to see the aftermath of the storm. Many said they were grateful no one was hurt but they are heartbroken about the damage.
A group of veterans stood tall as they folded the American flag that ripped in Sunday's storms.
Commander Butch Micheau is still in shock.
"It's unbelievable for me. I've lived through tornadoes up in Michigan and I've had them hit the house we were in but I've never had one do this much damage," he said.
He says there was little to no warning before a tornado tore through Jay County, leaving massive destruction in the town of Portland.
"All my Halloween decorations started flying and I had to go out and get it but I didn't even hear the siren until afterwards. It had already been through," said Dawn Mock, Portland resident.
From Jay County Jr.-Sr. High School to the homes on Main Street and right back to the American Legion where the roof is on the ground.
Portland Mayor Jeff Westlake says it could've been worse but there's a silver lining.
"I'm blessed, this community is a blessing. I mean we've been really lucky that something more major didn't happen, said Mayor Westlake.
"Hopefully everything can be rebuilt, but we ain't lost no life, that's the main thing, said Mock.